During pregnancy, a woman wants her child to be healthy and secure. Women tend to think twice before eating something or buying medicines at that time, to make sure their baby is safe and sound. Eucalyptus oil is considered one of the most beneficial and effective oil to be used at the time of pregnancy. Eucalyptus oil is the name given for the distilled oil from the leaf of Eucalyptus, belonging to the  Myrtaceae plant family native to Australia and is grown across the world. It is a natural antiseptic with anti fungal, antiviral, anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties.

According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, this aromatic oil also contains tannins, which may help reduce inflammation, and flavonoids, which have antioxidant properties. 1, 8 cineole is one of the important ingredients in eucalyptus oil which is known for its anti-bacterial effect.

Even though eucalyptus oil is considered safe during pregnancy, it’s best to talk to a doctor before using it.

15 Benefits and Uses of Eucalyptus for Pregnant Women

The smell of the eucalyptus oil helps relieve stress and strain

It smells like mint, with a hint of honey and is commonly used in balms to cure headaches. With its minty odour, eucalyptus oil works wonders for relieving stress, revitalizing energy and ease mental fatigue. Eucalyptus oil, as a stimulant, helps removes exhaustion and mental sluggishness thus, rejuvenating the spirits of people feeling sick. According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, eucalyptus oil may provide natural relief for nasal and chest congestion. Massaging a few drops of eucalyptus oil on the chest or inhaling the aroma directly helps to breathe better during chest congestion. Adding a few drops of oil to boiled water and inhaling the steam helps in relieving nasal congestions.

It increases the immunity of the body during flu and cold seasons

Eucalyptus oil acts as an agent that promotes the discharge or expulsion of mucus from the respiratory tract and secretion of sputum by the air passages (like an expectorant). It cleanses our body of toxins and harmful microorganisms that can make us feel sick. One of the most effective ways to utilize eucalyptus oil for colds is by using it in a shower, bath or steam inhalation. To do it, we would add two to three drops of the essential oil to our bath just before getting in.

If we are taking a shower, we would place two to three drops of the essential oil onto a wet washcloth. When the warm water of the shower heats the washcloth, the vaporized oil is released. When flu season is around the corner or someone in the house is under the weather, prepare yourself by diffusing a few drops of eucalyptus oil in your diffuser and letting the healing vapours waft through the entire house benefiting everyone.

Eucalyptus oil is known to reduce body aches and help you relax

It frees the body muscles and joints. If anyone experiencing any kind of joint and/or muscle pain, massaging eucalyptus oil on the skin helps to reduce stress and pain. Eucalyptus oil is also analgesic and anti-inflammatory in nature. Hence it is often recommended to patients who suffer from rheumatism, sprained ligaments, lumbago and tendons, aches, stiff muscles, fibrosis and even nerve pain. The oil should be massaged in a circular motion on the affected areas of the body. Also since eucalyptus oil is a natural vasodilator, it helps to widen blood vessels and improve blood circulation encouraging a free flow of blood to the muscles. Adding 20-30 drops of eucalyptus oil to a hot bath, the hot water promotes muscle relaxation and the eucalyptus oil gives a tingling, cooling effect and helps to loosen stiff, aching muscles.

Healing of wounds is also a major use

Don’t panic if you get wounded during pregnancy. Eucalyptus oil will help heal the wound. Because of its germicidal qualities eucalyptus oil has antiseptic qualities. When eucalyptus essential oil is exposed to air, an ozone layer is formed that makes the oil a potent antiseptic.  Therefore, eucalyptus oil is used for healing wounds, ulcers, burns, cuts, abrasions, and sores. It is also an effective ointment for insect bites and stings. Besides soothing the affected area, it also protects the open wound or irritated skin from developing infections due to microbial activity and exposure to air. We may also use eucalyptus oil in a cream or lotion for pain relief and for speeding up the healing of wounds and ulcers.

It helps people having breathing problems like asthma

Since asthma causes inflammation in the airway walls (the airways thin, tighten and more mucus is produced),  eucalyptus essential oil helps to widen the blood vessels, so that more oxygen can get into the lungs. The oil is also a natural anti-inflammatory, helping to thin and loosen mucous so it can be coughed up more easily, facilitating easier breathing and much needed relief. Eucalyptus oil can be useful for asthma by using it for chest rub.

To do it, blend 2-3 drops of eucalyptus essential oil with 1 teaspoon carrier oil, such as olive oil or jojoba oil and massage onto the chest. The strong aroma and soothing sensation will help open up the blood vessels and let more oxygen into the lungs for easier breathing. In case of steam inhalation, add 5 drops of eucalyptus oil to a bowl of hot water. Place a towel over the head and breathe in the steam. The eucalyptus-infused steam helps to dilate blood vessels in the airways, loosen mucus and relax spasms in the lungs.

Keeps teeth clean

Eucalyptus oil is very effective against dental plaque, cavities, gingivitis and other dental related infections due to its germicidal properties. This is why eucalyptus oil is commonly found as an active ingredient in toothpaste, mouthwash and dental hygiene products. Eucalyptus oil exhibits antibacterial activity against cariogenic (tooth decay-causing) and periodontopathic bacteria.

To use, dilute 1 drop with olive or coconut oil and swish in the mouth or apply 1 drop to your toothpaste before brushing. Eucalyptus contains an antiseptic known as cineole that destroys the bacteria responsible for causing bad breath. It also helps in maintaining the overall health on the teeth and gums. Today it is because of these benefits, eucalyptus oil finds its use in dental products like sealant and solvent used in root canal filings.

It kills the intestinal germs present in the womb of the mother

Eucalyptus oil being a vermifuge(A drug that causes the expulsion or death of intestinal worms, such as tapeworms) is frequently employed to eliminate germs in the intestine. Medical records have shown that ingesting eucalyptus oil can deter many of the bacterial, microbial, and parasitic conditions that arise in the various parts of the body, particularly susceptible areas like the colon and intestine. Eucalyptus essential oil can also be used as an anti-fungal agent against common fungal infections like candida and toenail fungus. And another lab study showed that eucalyptus oil has a direct antiviral effect against herpes simplex virus, which can lead to infections including genital herpes.

Can be used as a room freshener

The deodorant and antiseptic essence of eucalyptus oil makes it an ideal room freshener for hospitals and pretty much any other place you’d like. Additionally, it kills germs and bacteria in the atmosphere, keeping the surroundings clean and sterilized. Mix 3-4 drops of eucalyptus oil with one cup of baking soda, sprinkle it on carpets and then vacuum. Being an anti-fungal, it is also excellent as a deodorizer. It works wonders for general household cleaning and disinfecting, diminishing musty smells. To use it as an instant deodorizer, add 5-7 drops of eucalyptus oil to 2 cups of hot soapy water and use to deodorize things around the house. Dabbing 1-2 drops on your hanging room or car air freshener will instantly help revitalize it. You can also add a dab of lime essential oil or grapefruit essential oil for a fresh citrus aroma.

It treats breakouts of skin for the people facing acne

Eucalyptus oil helps in destroying bacteria clogging the pores and preventing it from spreading, making it an excellent natural treatment for acne. As an antibacterial and anti-inflammatory the oil not only helps to kill bacteria, but also to dry the blemished area and provide healing relief to irritated skin. To use eucalyptus oil for acne, mix 1 drop eucalyptus essential oil with 3 drops of water. Soak a cotton swab in the blend and apply liberally to pimples and oily areas of the face. It can also be used under make up, by adding 2-3 drops of the oil in our daily face moisturizer.

Helps sleep better

Putting some eucalyptus oil in a diffuser before bedtime, prepares us for a better night’s sleep because it’s aroma promotes the feeling of relaxation. Aromatherapy is a form of alternative medicine that relies on the powerful sense of smell. Day long activities can make us feel stressed and cause mental exhaustion leading to sleepless nights. But with eucalyptus oil which is great for relieving stress and mental fatigue, we can calm our mind. It removes mental sluggishness and rejuvenates us. The aroma of eucalyptus oil releases feel good hormones and makes us feel relaxed aiding in good night’s sleep.

Treatment of  Bronchitis

Some research shows that taking a specific combination product containing eucalyptol, a chemical found in eucalyptus oil, and extracts of pine and lime by mouth for at least 2 weeks improves symptoms and reduces flare-ups in people with bronchitis. Eucalyptus oil can help to reduce inflammation in the airways and also help treat symptoms associated with bronchitis as it has expectorant (an agent that promotes the discharge or expulsion of mucus from the respiratory tract and secretion of sputum by the air passages) properties, making it easier to expel mucus. Adding about 15 drops of eucalyptus oil to an ounce of carrier oil like almond or coconut oil and then rubbing it onto the chest well just before bed, helps promote a better night’s sleep and opens the airways.

Reduces head lice

Eucalyptus oil is a natural insecticide and many commercially available head lice sprays actually contain essential oils such as tea tree and eucalyptus. The active ingredients in eucalyptus oil help to stimulate hair follicles (the tiny holes where hair grows from) by stimulating blood vessels to constrict. This in turn gets more blood flow to the follicles and encourages healthy hair development. The combination of tea tree and eucalyptus oil is thought to either suffocate the lice, or numb them sufficiently to make them easy to comb out.

The nits (eggs) of lice stay close to the hair shaft and thus become difficult to remove with combing alone. Eucalyptus helps loosen the glue that the female adult louse puts on the egg to hold it onto the hair shaft.

It gets rid of headache

It is an anti-inflammatory, antispasmodic, and decongestant, which can all help relieve pain. The antibacterial properties of this oil are beneficial for treating headaches because it can not only help prevent us from getting a cold in the first place, but it can also help cure a cold faster and help make sure that we do not continue to be re-infected with the same cold after we have healed. Eucalyptus oil opens up the nasal passages, clear the sinuses, and can help relieve sinus tension that causes the headaches.

One study also found that a combination of peppermint oil, eucalyptus oil, and ethanol provided relaxing effects to both the muscles and the mind, which could help soothe headaches. We can apply a drop of eucalyptus oil to carrier oil and apply it to our chest to help clear the sinuses, or add a few drops to hot water and breathe in the vapour.

Helps in treating ulcers

Our gut is home to over 100 trillion bacteria. These bacteria help us break down the food we eat and absorb nutrition from it. They help in defending against germs and infection too. Antibiotics kill all bacteria – both good and bad. On the other hand, eucalyptus oil only targets the bad bacteria causing peptic ulcers. This promotes a healthy balance of good and bad bacteria. It can soothe the pain and discomfort of ulcers, without side effects being an anti-inflammatory agent. The best thing about using eucalyptus oil to get help with ulcers is that it does not affect the gut flora itself. Studies suggest that the effects of eucalyptus oil against the “herpes simplex virus,” responsible for causing ulcers are promising, so it is no surprise that over-the-counter balms for ulcers contain essential oils, including eucalyptus oil.

Cures bleeding gums

For treatment of gum diseases as anti-plaque agent for bleeding gums for halitosis stomatitis. Eucalyptus oil based mouthwash (Salviathymol N) has proved its value over years for the treatment of inflammatory conditions affecting the oral cavity and pharynx. In dentistry, eucalyptus oil is included in products used as sealers and solvents for root canal fillings. Dried eucalyptus leaf is used as a flavoring agent. It is also used as a mouthwash, antiseptic, liniment and ointment, and in toothpaste, cough drops, and lozenges. Eucalyptol is used as an ingredient in some mouthwash and dental preparations, as an endodontic solvent, and may possess antimicrobial properties. Most mouthwashes are combination of essential oils (eucalyptol, menthol, thymol, methyl salicylate) that has been shown to be efficacious for the reduction of dental and gingivitis.

Usage of eucalyptus

For a steam inhalation to treat problems like stress, flu , cold, asthma, intestinal germs, insomnia, head ache, bronchitis and ulcer ,bring 2 to 3 cups of water to a boil on the stovetop. Remove from heat and add a few drops of eucalyptus oil to the water. Sit comfortably at the table, place your head over the pot and cover your head with a towel as you gently inhale the vapours.

• Add 2 to 3 drops of eucalyptus oil to a warm bath and soak as you inhale the vapours and allow the oil to soothe your aching muscles and joints.
• Take 2-3 drops of eucalyptus oil and dilute it with little bit of water. Apply this to the wounded area or to the places on face affected by acne once every day with a clean cotton ball.
• Early research shows that applying eucalyptus oil and lemon tea tree oil does not get rid of head lice as effectively as applying tea tree oil and lavender oil or benzyl alcohol, mineral oil, and triethanolamine.
• For treating teeth and bleeding gums, wash ur mouth with water containing 2-3 drops of eucalyptus oil.(DO NOT SWALLOW)

 Safety of eucalyptus

Before starting the use of the oil during pregnancy, visit a health care expert.

According to Noreen Kassem, M.D., eucalyptus oil is considered safe when used as directed. Do not apply undiluted essential oils directly to your skin or take in its smell undiluted. Moreover, while choosing a eucalyptus oil product, choose the one that is organic and with at least 70 percent eucalyptol.

Working of eucalyptus

Eucalyptus leaf contains chemicals which may help control blood sugar. It also contains chemicals that might act against bacteria and fungi. Eucalyptus oil contains chemicals that might reduce pain and inflammation. It might also not allow the existence of chemicals that cause asthma.

Precautions to be taken

Pregnancy and breastfeeding: Eucalyptus is LIKELY SAFE for pregnant and breast-feeding women when consumed in small amounts found in food. But don’t use eucalyptus oil without diluting it.Not a lot is known about safety during pregnancy or breast-feeding. It should never be taken by mouth or directly applied to the skin undiluted.

Children

Eucalyptus oil is LIKELY UNSAFE for children. It should not be taken by mouth or applied to the skin directly. Not much is known about the safety of using eucalyptus for children. It’s best to avoid use in larger amounts than small amounts in food.

Surgery

Eucalyptus might affect blood sugar levels. Hence there is a major concern that it might make blood sugar control difficult during and after surgery. Stop using eucalyptus at least 2 weeks before you go through any kind of surgery.

Diabetes

Early research shows eucalyptus leaf might lower blood sugar. There is concern that using eucalyptus while taking medications for diabetes might lower the blood sugar way too much. Blood sugar levels should be observed closely.

Cross-Allergenicity

Eucalyptus oil and tea tree oil contain many of the same compounds. People who are allergic to eucalyptus oil might also be allergic to tea tree oil or other essential oils.

Conclusion

So finally it can be said that, when used in a proper way, eucalyptus oil is a boon for pregnant women.